The Old Mill House, a beautiful Georgian home in Witham
The Old Mill House is a lovingly restored, Grade II listed Georgian home set in secluded and private grounds. It boasts a formal garden area, a pond with a little island and a river with two walk over bridges. However, it isn’t just the land that offers bountiful amounts of space; the property also provides over 4,000 sq. ft of living space.
Dr Melanie Lee bought the house 10 years ago and has often used the property to host family get togethers. Work commitments have kept Dr Lee busy, often travelling to all corners of the world, and when not travelling she has been spending more time in Devon with her partner Steven Clendenon.
Mr Clendenon commented: “We travel a lot due to Melanie’s work schedule and often use my home in Devon as a retreat. It is my particular desire to make Devon our home and, as The Old Mill House is surplus to our requirements, we have decided that the house needs new owners who will love and cherish everything it has to offer.
“It is a beautiful house that Melanie has spent a lot of time restoring. The brick work at the back of the house has been restored and new windows have been installed, among many other renovation projects.”
This stunning example of a Georgian home strikes the perfect balance between old and new, where beautiful original features meet modern amenities. The classical light filled entrance hall leads to the dual aspect kitchen/breakfast room. The kitchen has been fitted with bespoke units and benefits from a central island that boasts a wine fridge and a large Range cooker.
On the ground floor, there are two well-proportioned reception rooms and formal dining room – perfect for entertaining. There is also a sitting room enjoying far reaching views across the extensive gardens.
Mr Clendenon said: “The dining room is one of my favourite rooms; it’s fabulous, a great space to entertain family and friends. The leopard room is another of my favourite rooms; it is a fantastic space that boasts a beautiful gas fire.”
Upstairs, the extensive master bedroom suite extends the whole of the east wing, including a spacious well-equipped dressing room with built in wardrobes and an en-suite bathroom.
Speaking of the master bedroom, Steven said: “The master bedroom is a glorious room, it has a spectacular closet space – the previous owner was a dress designer – and a wonderful en-suite that has been refurbished gloriously. All of the bathrooms have been renovated to modern standards including power showers.
“The fireplaces are a favourite feature of mine and in all the bedrooms you will find one, which in my opinion makes the rooms very romantic and attractive.”
Outside, you are met by beautiful surroundings and at the back of the garden there are public footpaths, perfect for those who love to take a walk. There is a detached mill barn, which used to be where the watermill sat up until 1849 when it was moved. It is currently used for storage but, subject to the necessary planning consents, the barn could be converted and utilised for a variety of uses.
The garden has also played an important role in family occasions; In particular, for Dr Lee’s youngest son’s wedding day. Mr Clendenon said: “It was a wonderful wedding venue; we had the whole family there, a marquee and caterers. The garden was a beautiful backdrop in their wedding photos.”
Speaking about what Dr Lee and Mr Clendenon would miss, Steven said: “We will miss all the family get togethers and the parties we have hosted at the house. The location and being a short commute to London is also something else we will miss, along with Leanne’s, a very good Chinese restaurant. It is the perfect property if you are a garden lover.”